Private Islands: Half Moon Cay
Holland America Line
Little San Salvador, a Bahamian out-island, was renamed Half Moon Cay by Holland America Line to honor Henry Hudson’s ship, which is depicted on the cruise line’s logo, as well as to reflect the beach’s crescent shape. Even after development, the island is still so unspoiled that it has been named a Wild Bird Preserve by the Bahamian National Trust.
Passengers are welcomed ashore at a West Indies Village complete with shops and straw market to find Half Moon Cay easily accessible—all facilities are connected by hard-surfaced and packed sand pathways that meet and exceed ADA requirements. Wheelchairs with balloon tires are available on a complimentary, first-come, first-served basis. A tram, also accessible, whisks passengers between the dock area and food pavilion.
In addition to the beach area for lazing in the sun or shade, the island has a post office, Bahamian-style chapel, and a water park for family fun. Air conditioned private cabanas can be rented for your own beachfront retreat, either with or without the services of a personal butler. A Private Oasis for up to 25 people is perched on a point, partially over water. With a total of 1,620 square feet, it includes a large covered deck and sun deck with eight-person hot tub. Upgrades with numerous amenities can be added to the basic package for the day; all include the services of a butler, personal chef, and lifeguard.
Excursions run the gamut from the thrill of parasailing to more sedate glass-bottom boat tours, including a guided kayak adventure on Bone Fish Lagoon, which covers over 1,400 square acres of protected habitat and is home to numerous native species of flora, and an educational encounter with the southern stingrays that make their home at Stingray Cove. The Horseback Riding by Land & Sea excursion sets out on a ride along winding trails up to the highest point on the island for a panoramic view before your horse is "dressed" up for swimming in a special saddle pad and a rope halter (no saddle), after which you venture into the ocean for the sensation of riding a horse while it's swimming.
What to do there: Scuba dive, snorkel, windsurf, jet ski, kayak, parasail, sail, fish, hike; ride bicycles; play basketball, shuffleboard, or volleyball; ride horseback; massages; fitness activities; shopping
Back to: Cruise Lines' Private Islands
More from CruiseDiva.com:
Articles & Advice
Cruise Reviews
Cruise Line Profiles
